SIPITANG: The Sindumin Community Development Leader Unit (UPPM) is urged to address issues affecting the gravity-fed water supply system in Kampung Kuala Muaya to ensure residents receive a more stable and adequate water supply.
Sindumin Assemblyman Yusri Pungut said villagers had raised concerns during a recent meeting, highlighting that the gravity water supply system has long been in poor condition and requires upgrading.
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He said access to a reliable water supply is a basic necessity, particularly as the village population continues to grow while the existing water supply has remained unchanged.
“The dam also needs to be upgraded and equipped with a storage tank to ensure sufficient water can be collected before it is distributed to residents,” he said.
Yusri said he was informed that the gravity water system was built several decades ago during the Berjaya Party administration, around 1986, and that its infrastructure has never undergone major improvements.
“Residents are requesting the construction of a proper dam to increase water storage capacity,” he said.
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He added that the system also requires a water filtration facility to ensure the safety and quality of the water supply, noting that the area is also a tourist destination.
“We hope the relevant authorities, including the UPPM, the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), and the village head, will respond to the concerns raised by the people and take steps to upgrade the gravity water system,” he said.
Yusri said residents are disappointed that despite the country’s long independence, essential infrastructure in the village remains inadequate.
“They are not asking for large or impressive buildings. What they need are basic amenities such as a reliable water supply. The current situation is poor and disappointing,” he said.
He hoped that the government would act promptly following the meeting with villagers and prioritise the upgrading of the gravity water supply system.
Yusri also claimed that the Sabah Rubber Industry Board (LIGS) regularly draws water from the same gravity-fed system but has not contributed towards improving the water catchment facilities.
“It is only appropriate that LIGS cooperates with the villagers since both parties use the same gravity water supply,” he said.
He explained residents have submitted numerous requests for improvements over the years, but these have not been acted upon. While some funding had been allocated for replacing water pipes, no provision had been made for installing a filtration system, resulting in untreated and murky water.
